National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Funmilayo Ojo |
In a dramatic turn of events today, governorship aspirants of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State have taken to the streets of Akure, the state capital, in protest over the alleged non-distribution of crucial election materials for the party’s primary.
According to reports, agents representing the aspirants had converged at the Bon Hotel, the designated venue for the distribution of election materials, only to be met with hours of delay. Despite assurances from Secretary of the Primary Election Committee, Senator Omo-Agege, that materials would be distributed by 7 am, tensions escalated as the clock ticked past the promised time.
As frustrations mounted among the aspirants and their supporters, news circulated that voting had commenced in various wards across Akoko and parts of Ondo South senatorial district, leaving many aspirants feeling sidelined and disenfranchised.
Speaking on behalf of the protesting aspirants, one of their representatives lamented the lack of transparency in the process, stating, “No voting materials were issued. We have been here since 6:30 am, but nothing was distributed. If they are not ready, then the election should be postponed.”
The situation was further compounded by allegations of selective distribution, with some aspirants claiming that materials were not sent to their respective areas. Chief Olusola Oke, represented by Ogunleye Rotimi, emphasized the importance of following due process and ensuring fairness for all party members.
In response to the protests, Governor Usman Ododo, Chairman of the Committee, addressed the aggrieved aspirants, stating that materials had been distributed to Ondo North and South senatorial districts, with distribution to Ondo Central pending.
As tensions continue to mount, stakeholders are calling for swift action to address the grievances of the aspirants and ensure a transparent and credible primary election process in Ondo State.
